Imagine a world where unique phenomena at the molecular scale can lead to entirely new, innovative, and transformative product designs for both military and commercial systems—all done by harnessing properties of materials at the nanoscale level. Since 2007, Lockheed Martin has strategically invested in the research, development, and manufacturing of next generation advanced materials and nanotechnology solutions, and in many ways, is driving the 21^st century materials revolution.

This technology has already proven to improve system performance for size, weight, and power requirements in various applications, in addition to driving down program lifecycle costs through the adaptation of new and improved manufacturing technology. We are committed to transitioning these capability enhancements into real and operational systems today with the help of innovative design approaches, mature, proven fabrication techniques and a cross-corporate network of experts

Over the past five years, we have built an extensive technology portfolio through internal research and development, collaboration with leading academic institutions, and strategic industry and government partnerships—the depth and breadth of which highlight our corporate level commitment in leading materials innovation and nanotechnology commercialization.

Lockheed Martin has introduced carbon nanostructure-infused fibers on the Juno spacecraft for electromagnetic interference applications and cost-efficient advanced nanocomposites onboard the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter wingtips to help achieve affordability initiatives. These insertion examples demonstrate the adaptation of new materials into new and existing systems, and more importantly, to open the door for future insertion opportunities and advancements.

Our areas of expertise are segmented into four, high-impact areas:

• Multifunctional Materials and Manufacturing – materials design and synthesis, advanced polymer composites, affordable metallic manufacturing, high temperature materials, metamaterials, and nano-enhanced wiring/shielding/cabling;
• Novel Sensors and Electronics – carbon nanotube-based memory, chemical/biological sensors, and nano-copper;
• Energy Solutions – high performance energy storage devices (electrodes, capacitors);
• Integrated Computational Materials Science & Engineering – multi-scale modeling of structural composites and electronic devices, nano-informatics modeling, first principle physics, and tool development.